When did you decide that you wanted to work with animals? Basically, all my life. As a child I spent a lot of time on my grandparent’s farm. We always had dogs and I discovered my love for horses when I was 38 years old. When I moved from Germany to the US about 5 ½ years ago I started working as a volunteer for an equine rescue organization and I learned very quick how beneficial massage can be for not only the physically abused horse but only for the ones that carry scars on their souls.

What animal influenced you the most growing up? Many, not only one. From pigs, cows, dogs, rabbits, and birds of different types.

What animals do you currently own? I currently own four horses, one of them a three months old filly. I also have two dogs, two muscovy ducks and one rabbit.

What makes your animal bodywork practice stand out? That I always try to look at every animal and every case individually. I do my best to listen to the animal besides the diagnosis I am getting from a vet or the observations from the owner. As bad as a lot of cases may appear in the beginning, they often turn out to not be as quite as bad. I take as much time for the evaluation and the treatment, as the patient needs. I allow all the time it takes (or the animal requires), and even though I may not have the answer right away, I certainly do my best to find the best possible solution. I am not afraid to say, if I feel, that I may not be the one who could help a patient. In this case I would always refer to a more qualified practitioner or to a vet or chiropractor.I personally love to work with neglected and abused horses. Massage is a wonderful way to earn and gain trust and prepare these horses to find new homes and become a great partner for their new owner. Many times my work makes it possible for a veterinarian to give those animals the treatment that’s so badly needed to turn them healthy horse again.After all, the animal comes first, and healing takes time.

What message would you like to share with perspective clients? Be patient with your animal. Never try to rush recovery. I understand that many times all you want is to have your partner back with you in the show ring, but healing takes time and it’s definitely worth to give it some extra time instead of starting practice too soon without the injury being completely healed. Try to be open minded towards alternative treatments.

Observe your animal – every little thing you notice is important.And for those who deal with a mentally abused animal – the same goes here – take your time and earn the trust, I can promise you it will be worth the effort and time you take with this animal. You will never have a more grateful friend in the end.What message would you like to share with others who are thinking about pursing a career in animal bodywork? Do it! Don’t hesitate and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. This is how we learn. No matter how old you are – you are never too old. It’s not important when you start, it’s important that you start at all. And continue to learn. There is always something new or maybe different to learn from another practitioner. Sometimes we find a solution at random, when we least expect it.And most of all. Enjoy what you are doing and never give up! The animals will thank you for your effort.